Let 2018 be the Year to Turn Over a New Leaf!

Are you looking to start the New Year off right, but afraid that your past might hinder your current and future aspirations? If you have a warrant, revoked license, or priors, no need to fret, Castillo Law is here to help!

Arrest vs Default Warrants

There are two different types of warrants: an arrest warrant and a default warrant. An arrest warrant is an order issued by a judge to arrest an individual suspected in a criminal case. The warrant is placed to help catch the defendant and bring him before the court to answer any alleged charges. A default warrant can be issued if you fail to appear for a court date, fail to complete your probation or diversion terms, or if you violate your probation or conditions of release. It is important to quash a warrant as soon as possible, because you could be held with or without bail. It is best to have an attorney quash a warrant for you.

Suspended vs Revoked License

When it comes to driver’s licenses, an individual may have their license suspended or revoked. A license suspension is temporary and can be reinstated after your license suspension has ended and you have paid a reinstatement fee. Having your license revoked is much longer and more serious than a suspended license, but in Arizona you can reapply for a new license when your revocation period ends. Reasons why your license can be suspended or revoked are failure to comply with medical requirements, failure to meet medical or vision standards, failure to comply with a request for a vision, written, or road test, or through a court order. If you get a DUI while driving on a suspended or revoked license, your charges can change from a misdemeanor to a felony. If you are driving on a suspended license and are pulled over for a traffic violation such as speeding, a carpool lane violation, or running a red light your license can get revoked, as well as having your car towed. If your license is revoked, it cannot be reinstated without a new application which includes a thorough background check and a review of your driving record.

Start over with a Set Aside

Having a criminal history can make it difficult to move forward with new jobs or better opportunities. Don’t let your past dictate your future. If you have an eligible criminal conviction, you can apply to have it set aside and to have your rights restored, depending on the nature of the charges. Offenses that cannot be set aside in Arizona includes some of the following: sexual offenses, offenses involving a minor, offenses that require you to register, offenses involving serious physical injury, and offenses that involved the use of a deadly weapon. To apply for a set aside, you must first complete all the requirements from your conviction, including any restitution and court fees must be paid in full. Once you have completed all the requirements, you can submit a petition to the court asking to have your judgment of guilt set aside. It is important to understand that if your conviction is set aside, your criminal record will show up during background checks, but it will state that it has been set aside.

It is highly recommended that if you or a loved one has a warrant, revoked license, or a conviction on record to obtain legal counsel to help you start your new year off right. Castillo Law is here to help 24/7 with the expertise and due diligence that will exceed your expectations at 480-206-5204.